Buying carpet can be a stressful task. With so many patterns, colors, textures, and materials, the options can be overwhelming. But when you know the right tips for buying carpet, choosing between carpet tiles, rugs, or traditional carpet flooring can be easy. Below, we answer the most common questions homeowners have while contemplating the different kinds of carpet and carpet prices. You'll feel more confident in your ability to make a decision on buying carpet after you read our tips.

How to Buy Carpet

Many people worry about choosing the right carpet for their home. With so many options, it's easy to see why. But, if you keep in mind the amount of traffic a room will see, you can confidently make the right choice.

Carpets are much improved over their predecessors from even just 10 years ago. Whether it's made of polyester or nylon, the denser the pile, the better the carpet will be. Carpet pile weight can vary from 20 to 100 ounces per square foot. Most good residential carpets are about 40-45 ounces. The denser the pile, the better it will wear over time.

In addition to the actual carpet, you should also buy an underpad. This is a layer that fits under the carpet and protects your new flooring for wear and tear. A good quality underpad can add a noticeable difference in comfort level, too.

Before you head to the store to make your final carpet purchase, be sure to take detailed measurements of your room. This way, you'll know exactly how much carpet you should buy and the store will be able to give you an accurate cost estimate.

Kinds of Carpet

You might be surprised to learn that there are many different kinds of carpet. Some are cut-loop style and others might be textured plush. It might be overwhelming to take in all the carpet options at first, but there is a type for every style and room. Each carpet type has its own thickness and feel that makes it appropriate for different areas of your home. To learn more about the different types of carpet and how to choose the one best for you, take a look at our carpet guide.